Family Times - Wellington - Spring 2012

ISSN 1176 791X

W E L L I N GT O N

Spring Issue 2012

Is it Easy Street for kids today?

How expectations have changed

Homework Too much? Not enough?

Get kids into the kitchen Having fun with food!

Win Win Win

Competitions, giveaways and vouchers

A news magazine and online resource for families

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Inside this issue 5

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11

Features 4 The importance of play

Kids having fun while learning!

How to communicate and cope with daughters

5 Parenting girls

6 Are we too easy on today’s children?

How expectations have changed over the generations

11 Tablets vs. computers Making the right choice

Too much or not enough?

9 Getting kids into the kitchen Encouraging healthy eating with help from the kids

10 Baby and toddler

How children shape their world through play

About Us Publisher Robyn Willis Design & Production Moody Shokry Advert Production Target Press Production Office Editor Vanessa O’Brien Assistant Editor Rachel Taniwha Digital editor

Fiona Smith

Contributing Writers

Maureen Crisp, Tracey - Ann Abery, Wayne Webb, Joseph Driessen, Gill Connell Advertising Sales

Caren Constable, Shona Robb,Nicky Barnett, Jane Hunter, Tina Barriball, Katrina Wright Office Manager

Raelyn hay

Office Assistant

Jackie Pithie

Get outdoors – family-friendly walks and huts

Choosing a bike

Comment

18 Cycle safety

12 Kids’ view

21 Family physical activities

8 The homework debate

17 Let’s go tramping!

We ask children if they think their childhood differs from their parents or grandparents. ...

Special features 16 Parties

Good old-fashioned birthday party games to enjoy and decorations to make.

Reach us at: Family Publishers (NZ) P.O. Box 36-004, Christchurch NZ Free phone 0800 28 55 10 Fax: 03 3559 183 Mobile. 0274-359-414

Email: admin@familytimes.co.nz

Get out and about this Spring

22 Healthy eating in food courts

It’s possible! Know your numbers.

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WIN

Resource information 14 Calendar of events 15 Entertainment 20 Marketplace

Look out for these icons throughout the publication for the chance to win great prizes. In this issue, you can win a MacPac Vamoose Carrier, two Mocka bikes and trips on the Interislander!

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Printed and distributed quarterly approximately two weeks before each major school holiday. 38,521 distributed through early childhood centres, primary and intermediate schools, public libraries and selected medical and midwifery premises. The opinions expressed in this publication are not those of the publisher unless indicated otherwise. No part of this publication may be reprinted without the expressed written permission of the publisher. Family Times is not responsible for unsolicited material. Family Times is funded and published solely through the support of its advertisers. They support us, so please support them.

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From the editor The importance of play Of all the combinations of words in the world that have the power to irk me, these three do it best: “it’s not fair.”

“Life’s not fair,” I respond pragmatically. “You might as well get used to it.”

It’s not that I’m a pessimist, or trying to impart pessimism into the upcoming generation. But I think a little realism can help develop a tenacity in people – even little people - that cultivates character that won’t crumble at the first obstacle in life.

I’d like to imagine that these words of wisdom are my own, but I have a sneaking suspicion creeping up on me. Are they the exact same words my mother spoke to me?

On contemplation, I’m pretty sure they are.

They echoed through my head every time I had to hang out the washing, do the dishes, make the lunches, ride back from the shops on my Raleigh 20 with groceries bags balanced on the handle bars, iron school shirts, vacuum the floor, or mow the lawns.

Now, that’s not a comprehensive list of chores, but by today’s standards, it’s practically child slavery.

And no amount of salty tears streaming down my face moved my mother.

As it turns out - to the complete surprise of a 10-year-old me, quivering at the injustice of it all - I survived.

Most parents I know today look back on those days as a kind of golden age – a time when kids were kids, adults were obeyed, and life was somehow simpler.

There’s a general feeling that much of today’s young generation has a sense of entitlement. It’s not just kids: Generation Y is well documented for expecting the best jobs with the best benefits, before they’ve paid their dues.

But as much as we hearken to bygone values,

Play is important for a child’s development and through play they can learn to make sense of the world. Parents have a vital role in helping their child to grow and learn. Being involved in their play can be a great opportunity to bond with pumpkin, peas and beans. It can also be a lot of your child and can also be a lot fun to make a bird cake from old bread, seed, jam and fat and hang it outside the window so of fun! the birds can be watched from inside.

Active play Creative play Encouraging your child to be active will help we live in a different world. Today’s modcons mean that littlies aren’t bringing in the firewood or slaving over hot, soapy water, but more is expected of them in terms of achievement – in academics, sports, cultural activities and club memberships. Kids spend less time on household chores, but it hasn’t translated into more time for imagination and free play. I frequently hear the exhausted sighs of exasperated parents trying to keep up with their kids’ busy schedules.

Now, every parent wants the best for their child, but the question has to be asked: are we expecting too much of parents these days, and not enough of kids? We ask the experts what they think in our main parenting article this edition.

We’ve also got plenty of parenting tips, competitions and ideas to keep the whole family entertained this spring.

Enjoy!

Vanessa O’Brien

their body and mind to develop. Some things you could try include playing some lively music to dance, crawl, creep or climb to. Ask your child to move like a snake, a bird, or show you what a slowly melting ice-cream in the sun might look like.

You could build an obstacle course inside using chairs, tables, blocks, rugs, boxes, planks and cushions, or beanbags to provide opportunities for climbing, crawling, jumping and balancing.

It can be a lot of fun to let your toddler crawl behind you as you lead them around a spontaneous obstacle course.

Imaginative play

Children have active imaginations and you can encourage this by pitching a tent inside or put blankets or old curtains over tables or pegged to chairs to make a playhouse with boxes and cushions inside for furniture. You might like to invite other children over to play too - or perhaps organise with a group of friends to take turns to meet together in different houses.

Children often enjoy playing in a different environment and it is a great way for them to practice social skills.

Scientific play

To explore the natural world you and your children could grow carrot and parsnip tops in a saucer of water; sprout kumara in a glass jar on a shelf (it is a very fast growing vine); sprout old potatoes in a shoe box with a hole cut in one end – the sprouts will grow towards the light; grow watercress on damp cotton wool; grow spring bulbs in an old wine carafe filled with water (you can plant it out later); grow a broad bean in a glass jar; or plant a mixture of seeds in egg cartons – such as chick peas,

Play dough is great for children to make creative masterpieces and to play at imitating cooking and meal preparation activities. There are a range of recipes online to choose from and recipes using salt will last quite some time if kept in the fridge. You might like to make plain coloured dough and give the children different food colouring in little squeezy bottles to add their own colours. You could also add further variety by scenting the dough with essences and changing the texture by adding other materials such as glitter and crushed egg shells.

The kitchen sink can be a great place for playing with water – children can help wash the dishes (remember to supervise children playing with water closely). Warm soapy water can be used to bathe dolls or any other toys - spreading newspaper on the floor will help to catch any splashes. You can make ice shapes by freezing containers with coloured water, flowers, and objects like shells. You can also vary the shape of containers, for example freezing rubber gloves filled with water then peel off to make ice hands.

Cognitive development and language skills

There are plenty of activities that can help your child to develop language, reading and writing skills - by talking, singing, rhyming, reading and storytelling with them. Write down the stories and poems that they tell you. You could tape these stories and play them back. Using finger and hand puppets is a great way to develop their stories further and to develop characters.

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Parenting girls Parenting girls involves the same fundamental parenting skills as for boys.

These skills include setting up a good one-to-one relationship with your daughter; discussing with her your expectations and supporting her with her difficulties.

A

dditionally, parents need to run a wellorganised household that provides structure and routines so that your daughter is supported in her efforts to meet the demands of family, school, hobbies and sports commitments. Finally, it also involves setting clear boundaries and providing natural and logical consequences if she persists in breaking those boundaries.

As well as practising these critically important parenting skills, it pays for parents to consider that the strengths of girls’ personalities can also have associated liabilities.

Many girls have strongly developed empathy skills, which enables them to form close and supportive relationships with both family and friends. The downside of this is that girls can become over-involved with too many social relationships, and become overextended in trying to meet the resulting maintenance demands of these relationships. Wise parents monitor the danger signs of this and help their daughters to moderate this tendency.

Associated with this tendency of having too many social contacts, some girls overburden themselves with the worries of their friends and relatives, and become anxious and preoccupied about their inevitable ups and

“...some girls overburden themselves with the worries of their friends and relatives, and become anxious and preoccupied about their inevitable ups and downs.” downs. Some girls have large friendship groups in which all the girls are endlessly preoccupied with yet another problem of one of the members, and these constant worries affect the mental outlook of all the girls involved in the group.

Including in this mix of relationships is the tendency of some younger girls to become intensely involved with one particular friend with which they share their most intimate and personal secrets. Sometimes these friendships can blossom into enduring adult friendships which bring great happiness and support for both girls. However, they can also end into catastrophic breakups which unleash intense feelings of grief, betrayal and anger. At times these feelings are shared and amplified by the wider friendship groups of both girls, and then a longstanding social vendetta involving rumours and slander can go back and forth between the ex-friends and their friends, causing a great deal of hurt and misery to the girls involved. Wise parents and teachers then should intervene, and should invest time and counsel the two girls into accepting the breakup of their friendship, and to insist on stopping the social vendetta.

It also pays for fathers and mothers to consider their individual approaches with their daughters.

Fathers have a great influence on their daughters, and the strength of this parental relationship will delay the need for a girl to

start searching for a boyfriend-girlfriend relationship. This delay is an advantage, because it will enable your daughter to embark on these kind of relationships with far greater maturity and internal stability. Fathers also need to be aware that many girls want to process their feelings by just talking things through, and that often the best thing a father can do is to lend a listening ear, without too much advice giving.

Mothers too can benefit from standing back and reflecting on their relationship with their daughter. Many daughters will testify that their mothers are their best friends, and research shows that mothers support their daughters right through their adult lives.

However, there can be a downside to these strong mother-daughter relationships in that the daughter is unable to extricate herself from her parent, and is not able to ever become a truly independent and autonomous person in her own right. A mother therefore needs to be careful to foster the

independence of her daughter.

Before girls embark on their teenage years, it pays for parents to lay a strong foundation of instilling safe self-management practices.

Teenage years are exhilarating and at times difficult, but the best parents manage to negotiate and/or insist on safety first. Research shows that those parents who have developed and maintained strong, caring and mutually respectful relationships with their daughters manage to get their girls through the difficult adolescent times, and witness them blossoming into strong and wonderful young women.

All this takes steady self-reflection; the determination to be the best parent you can be; the wisdom and love to engage with your daughter as she encounters difficulties and the courage to intervene when she requires your boundaries, support and guidance.

By Joseph Driessen, education consultant Driessen speaks to parent and teacher groups about education. Email j.o.d@xtra.co.nz.

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feature story

Are we too easy on today’s children?

“When I was your age…”

Those few words have resonated throughout generations of families worldwide.

T

oday’s parents heard it from their parents, and undoubtedly today’s children hear it from their parents. Is it just a case of the older generation ranting and raving about the difficulties of life without today’s mod-cons, or was life really different in bygone days in terms of values and expectations?

The stories are endless; walking to school in the snow, chopping wood for the fire, washing clothes by hand. Kids playing on the streets and walking to school were once a frequent sight, but not in today’s world.

While the older generation may be quick to point the finger at today’s parents for making life too easy for their kids, and potentially raising a nation of overly dependent, lazy children, experts that Family Times spoke with said that it was not a cut-and-dried case. Parental expectations are still there, but they are different from bygone generations. While today’s kids are not necessarily shovelling snow, that doesn’t always mean that their lives are a cake walk, or that parents have lost control of parenting.

Who’s the boss?

Family therapist and parenting coach Diane Levy thinks it is much more difficult for today’s parents to raise children than it was a generation ago. “When our parents asked their

children to do something they did it without hesitation.”

Parents felt absolutely entitled to ask children to do something without worrying about whether they were being positive enough or phrasing it the right way. “They certainly never felt obliged to offer us incentives for ordinary household chores or our homework obligations.”

She says that with the influence of the many parenting experts these days (and admits she is one of them) and their varying opinions on how to raise children, it is no wonder that parents hesitate at each step of the parenting journey.

“The effect is that it is quite hard to tell who is in charge – parent or child.”

Are we too soft?

Maybe it’s a safety conscious society, or overprotective parents, but the sight of children playing in the streets and making their own fun, which was once common, is no longer the norm.

The Parenting Place creative director John Cowan says his parents were “delightfully neglectful”. As a child he would dawdle from school, go to his mates’ places or play on the railway lines and by the creek. The only time he had to phone was if he wasn’t going to be home for tea. He does say however, child accident rates then were four times higher than they are today, so the vigilance of today’s parents is not all neurotic overprotection. “Walking to school and catching public transport is probably as safe as it always has been.”

Eldercare Canterbury co-ordinator Valda Reveley, who discussed the issue of

expectations of today’s children compared to previous generations with a member of an Elder Care Canterbury Consumer Group, said perhaps parents today were too protective.

Children needed to be encouraged and shown how to become independent.

“If you make things “too safe” they won’t cope when they get older. Be logical but don’t make our children fearful, dependent and less able to become independent thinkers and problem solvers, compromising their ability to parent well themselves.”

On the other hand, parents do need to educate

children about scenarios that could put them at risk. Technology today has changed the whole game-plan in that regard, with the widespread use of cell phones and social media.

Entitlement and the changing face of the family

Family dynamics have certainly changed from previous generations: the average age of firsttime mothers has risen, the number of children in the “average” family has dropped, and there are more single parents and combined families.

The cost of living has increased, but so has relative income. More children are in childcare

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feature story

to enable both parents to work and receive a double income.

Given the economic changes and greater focus on consumer goods, Levy says today’s parents feel more obliged to come up with good explanations and justifications for why their children cannot have everything they want.

“Our parents were better at simply saying “no”.”

Expectations

Children in previous generations were undoubtedly expected to assist with more household chores. With today’s heat pumps, dishwashers, packaged and processed foods, microwaves and combined washer/dryers, children are largely spared these domestic duties.

Cowan says he was the indulged baby of the family and suspects he got off lightly in terms

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of chores. However, his own children, who are now young adults, all helped with household duties. “I am convinced that has contributed to their independence. Chores teach life skills, they help kids feel competent and it teaches them to work. They learn that that a family mucks in together to get things done.”

However, clinical psychologist Dr Fran Vertue said that in most cases, expectations of children around the home were greater 25 years ago when educational options were broader and there was far less academic competition.

“While some parents may put less emphasis on their children being in paid work or doing chores around the house, they have much higher expectations in terms of their children’s achievements.”

There are definite bonuses to having high hopes - Levy says children can learn to be productive if parents raise their expectations.

“If we raise our expectations of how they contribute to the family and that we expect them to contribute well at school and take full advantage of the educational opportunities offered to them, our children are likely to meet these expectations.”

Furthermore, Levy says that today there is more variety available for children in school subjects and after school activities, but far less time to play and find ways of entertaining themselves.

Dr Vertue says one of the struggles she has is with parents who insist that their children are constantly busy after school and on weekends with activities that are meant to extend them in some way. “Children seemed to have more free time than they do now.”

The influence of parents

So, although expectations of today’s children in the home are not as high as in previous generations, children have less free time and more planned activities. But ultimately, parents hold the key to finding that balance, and

shaping their children to become productive adults and independent decision makers in an ever-changing world.

Dr Vertue says parents need to find the equilibrium (which shifts constantly as children develop) between pushing them out into the world and holding them in a safe, nurturing way. “Some parents expect their children to understand issues that are way beyond their capacity – the children are treated like short adults – with the result that the children are constantly disappointing their parents.

Sometimes, children just get exhausted from their parents’ demands.”

Of course there are parents at the other end of the spectrum who make so few demands that their children are developmentally delayed in terms of independence, says Dr Vertue.

Cowan says that not only are children less independent than before, they are staying

•

• •

•

dependent longer. According to an Australian expert on boys, Ian Lillico, the median age for boys to leave home is 26 years and climbing.

So, are today’s parents doing a good job in a consumer society that expects less in the home, but demands more in terms of achievement?

Levy says that from a parenting perspective, it’s more difficult to raise children to be whole and healthy contributing people, but there is a “splendid opportunity to tailor-make our parenting toward raising our children in a direction that will be good for them and good for the community.”

“Most importantly, if we are going to raise our children well, we need to find a way of giving them a community to belong to and contribute to and as parents. We need to find a way of sticking together,” she says.

By Rachel Taniwha

Key points of “our parents versus us” Our parents felt absolutely entitled to ask children to do something without worrying about whether they were being positive enough or phrasing it the right way – parents of this generation feel more obliged to offer incentives.

Children need to be encouraged and shown how to become independent. If things are made too safe, it will be hard to cope when they’re older.

Be logical but don’t make your children fearful, dependent and less able to become independent thinkers and problem solvers, compromising their ability to parent well themselves.

Today’s parents feel more obliged to

• • • • •

come up with good explanations and justifications for why their children cannot have everything they want. Our parents were better at simply saying no.

Household chores help contribute to independence.

Parents these days tend to expect more from their child(ren) in terms of achievement.

Children are not short adults! Don’t expect them to understand issues beyond them.

Children are staying at home longer than previous generations.

Give them a sense of community to belong to and contribute to.

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Homework – too much or not enough?

Homework can be a controversial topic. Is it necessary after a six-hour school day? Are children getting enough, or too much?

T

he amount of homework can vary from school to school and teacher to teacher.

The role of parents in encouraging - or in some cases actually doing their children’s homework - is also a factor.

Educational psychologist Rose Blackett does not recommend a certain timeframe for daily homework, but rather “taming the homework monster” to suit the child and family needs. “If homework is ending in fights, arguments, or negative behaviour (from the child or parent) then things need to be reviewed quickly and adjusted.”

Blackett says that whole class generic homework programmes will possibly suit the middle group in a class but will likely be far too easy (and boring) for the top end and far too challenging and time consuming for the children experiencing academic difficulties.

Individualised homework programmes linked to classroom programmes and with an element of choice are suggested if homework is given.

Blackett also says that for some children getting through the school day and completing classroom tasks alone can take huge amounts of physical and cognitive energy. By the time they get home they need a snack and some down time rather than more “work” in the form of homework. She has worked with families and negotiated with schools to have

more individualised homework options. “Not everything should have to be written. Doing something creative can lead to the same or better learning experiences for children.”

Instead of formalised homework as such, Blackett recommends daily reading for children in the junior years. “Most new entrant/ reception teachers will report higher reading levels for children whose parents read with them and share their reading books for homework. If homework is done in a relaxed manner and is a positive experience for the child (and parent) then this can support what is happening at school and lead to positive learning outcomes.”

On the flipside, she says that if a parent puts a child under pressure to complete work that is too hard or unable to be completed independently, it can be detrimental. “If a child dislikes reading because it is too difficult for them, then making them do work they cannot do every night makes them go from disliking reading to hating it with a vengeance. We are setting them up to fail every day. Parents and children going into battle over homework every night is not conducive to positive parentchild relationships nor does it lead to positive academic outcomes for the child.”

Blackett further says that homework, if given, should be able to be completed independently by the child.

In the early years, however, a parent might play a bigger role. “It can be challenging for busy, working parents to juggle homework with their other tasks each day. I suggest having a routine to suit your family after school helps.

“If your child finds reading difficult for example, let them come home and have a snack and

a break. Exercise and getting outside for some active boys is a must before they are ready to do any homework.”

Blackett also suggests talking to teachers if homework is an issue.

“Be honest if things have become negative and work with the teacher and your child to negotiate a more workable option for homework.”

As to the argument of not doing homework?

Blackett says that not doing homework can be detrimental, particularly in the early years.

“Reading experience and exposure is important.

If a child is able to read their book to mum or dad, grandparents, or even the family cat, then they build up what is known as reading mileage. They develop skills and learn the language of “literacy”.

“But homework must be fun and engaging.

When my children were little we had reading picnics outside under a tree, read in the bath (bubbles included) or used puppets and silly voices to make it enjoyable. Simply changing the environment changes the task.”

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Food and nutrition guidelines for kids - loaded with common sense It’s official; the best nutrition 1. Let me choose what I cook “Simple – if I don’t like it, I’m not going to and education brains in want to cook it.” the country have made 2. Get me a recipe with decent instructions that a recommendation* that work parents are advised to involve “If I go to the effort of cooking I want it to their kids in food shopping work. I don’t want to have to keep running to you to ask what to do next.” and cooking family meals.

W

ow - what a trump card for parents. It is not just you nagging to get your kids to help – evidence from the experts actually backs you up. Your kids are likelier to be healthier if they help. Why? Because study after study shows that a child who has practical food skills makes better food choices.

Okay, so this is good in theory, but how do you do it? I ran some focus groups with kids aged 9 - 15 years to find the sort of things parents could do to encourage cooking. What I found out was seriously enlightening, somewhat amusing and really helpful. These eight key points could verge on being precocious – but it certainly helps us if we know what they are thinking.

In their words, this is what parents should do:

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3. Have all the ingredients “Don’t expect me to be able to substitute ingredients when I am just starting off on this cooking lark!”

4. Stay out of the kitchen “Don’t be a helicopter hovering around.

Give me some space to work things out – but stick around in case I need to ask.”

5. Resist “you should have” comments “If I want to know, I’ll ask.”

6. Be impressed “If you expect me to do this again you need

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7. Don’t nag “If I take a bit longer than you do or I don’t clean up exactly like you do, cut me some slack – I have just cooked you a meal!”

8. Cut me a deal!

“If you expect me to buy into this “cook

a meal once a week idea” there has to be something in it for me. This “skills for a lifetime” doesn’t really flick my switch – but money for the movies or that new dress does. You are probably going to buy me new stuff at some stage anyway, so you may as well make me think I have earned it.”

Other recommendations from the Ministry of Health include eating together as a family, eating from the four food groups daily and ensuring food safety. Other guidelines look at physical activity, because food cannot be considered in isolation if you want a healthy child.

However, whilst juggling the demands of work, school and family many of us struggle with the practical reality of making it happen. Well I have a plan for that too…

My teen daughter and I have developed an online cooking program to really engage children to become food savvy and prepare family meals. This programme, which runs 2-4 October, gets your children cooking your dinner, in your home, using your food. It harnesses the power of role models by using a teen to inspire children. Your children learn to cook while they hang out with other kids online. It’s not just cooking: we slip in all sorts of other foodie things such as making food choices, reading labels and kitchen safety. Plus they gain confidence both in the kitchen and on the computer. Activities and competitions

encourage the children to share, contribute, be creative, create an occasion to eat together and do something nice for other people.

So here is a clear action plan - enrol your kids in the It’s My Turn to Cook Tonight Bosch School Holiday Programme at www. foodsavvykids.com and sit back while they have fun, learn food skills, and you get your dinner cooked! * On 6 August The Ministry of Health released Food and Nutrition Guidelines for Healthy Children and Young People (aged 2-18 years).

Details at www.healthed.govt.nz.

By Glenda Gourley, Food Savvy Kids

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9

baby & toddler

How children shape their world through play Miniature toys such as dolls, action figures, toy vehicles, animals, dinosaurs, aliens, and the like are powerful tools in the hands of little ones. And for good reason: this kind of play shrinks the world down into manageable, kid-sized experiences for working out complex, emotional and social concepts.

Power play

If you think about it, when you’re little, it’s easy to confuse size with power. After all, grown-ups are big and seem to think they can tell children what to do. So when children play with miniatures they naturally take on the power role, trying on what it feels like to be big, to have the ultimate say and to control events. And through that power, like Spiderman, children naturally learn how to take on responsibility.

You see, children aspire to the hero they see in us everyday – the one who responds to their needs – the responsible, reliable, “go to”. The desire to be like us is often reflected in this kind of play: feeding your baby doll, gassing up your Tonka truck, defeating the bad guys or kissing the frog to turn him into a prince. Even “smash

and bash” play, such as an all out Hot Wheels demolition derby in the living room, is about controlling events -smashing things up, putting it all back together, then smashing them up again!

In short, miniatures let children figure out how to make everything right with the world according to their own world view.

Separating the boys from the girls

About the time children start exploring these play patterns you may begin to notice differences between what boys and girls choose to play with. Often, this seems to come out of nowhere. I’ve had many parents swear to me that they provide a balanced, nongender selection of toys, don’t allow television or computer time, yet still their sons choose trucks and army guys, and their daughters choose dolls and tea sets.

There has always been a nature/nurture debate

about whether or not these play choices are part of a child’s organic wiring or if it’s due to what they are assimilating from their environment. Here’s what I believe:

There is no difference

In these early years, a child’s play choices have little – and maybe even nothing – to do

Early childhood education with a difference Parents and whanau are at the heart of Playcentre – the philosophy is that being really involved in your child’s early years is rewarding, fun, and brings great results.

Playcentre values parents/whanau as children’s best first teachers, so it provides free NZQA-approved training for adults to lead sessions and run centres. Learning teaching and parenting skills, including child development and positive guidance, helps you really enjoy parenting.

The importance of play, especially child-led

play, is central to Playcentre, where children’s passions and interests are encouraged. Good ratios mean adults work closely with children to extend their learning and that children can do complex activities, like building projects.

Many families find lifetime friendships through Playcentre. Children from birth to schoolage can attend, and there are 39 Playcentres in Wellington and the Hutt. Phone 0800 PLAYNZ or visit www.Playcentre.org.nz to find a Playcentre near you.

with his/her gender and everything to do with what he/she needs to experiment with and solve emotionally and socially. And because miniatures give all the power to the child, they are ideal for this kind of internal exploration of self. Any “meaning” ascribed to a child’s choice of doll or action figure, magic wand or light saber, princess carriage or Batmobile, is an adult filter that misses the point.

So often, boys and girls play the exact same way; to tend to, fix, take care of, nourish, rescue, solve, defend and restore. In short, to make the lives of others better.

And in my view, when children are reaching for these values this early in life, something really right is going on with their upbringing, no matter what they pick out of the toy box.

By Gill Connell Gill Connell is founder of Moving Smart, co-author of Moving to Learn, and a child development expert with a focus on the natural development of children’s cognitive, emotional, social, and physical development through movement. Visit www.movingsmart.co.nz or www.movingsmartblog.blogspot.com.

Breastfeeding help by mothers for mothers LA LECHE LEAGUE OFFERS: • Mother-to-mother support • Telephone help • Trained breastfeeding counsellors • Regular meetings • Books and leaflets for sale • Lending libraries

CONTACT US: (04) 471 0690 EMAIL: help@lalecheleague.org.nz www.facebook.com/LLLNZ www.lalecheleague.org.nz

10 www.familytimes.co.nz

Tablets Vs. Computers?

As with most modern purchases, the personal details of your own situation will determine which device is right for you. It’s very easy to get caught up in the very popular rush for tablets, or to easily dismiss this as a fad.

Understanding what your circumstances dictate and what your options are is the way to find the best solution.

Differences:

Definitions:

It really depends on what you need. If you can only afford to invest in one technology first then the best solution is the one that suits the most of your needs. The biggest consideration is often price and capability. Most people will probably end up with both devices in their homes or office as time progresses. Devices are getting smarter, cheaper and more usable every day so the future is more devices, and more connectivity.

Tablets are by definition and description computers, but with a specific size and interface. Generally a tablet is a rectangular screen with no attached keyboard that operates mainly by touch screen input. You can easily distinguish a tablet by some easy characteristics: • It’s bigger than a mobile phone, but smaller than a full screen computer or laptop.

• No physical keyboard • Operates by touch • Is portable • Is called a tablet, phablet, pad, slate or book (The phablet is a new term that describes that interim step between a large mobile phone and a small tablet.)

The personal computer (PC) on the other hand is generally a machine that sits on a desk with keyboard, processor box, mouse and screen. In the case of a laptop, it has all of these features built into a single device and can be opted to be portable and run on battery power or be plugged into an electrical outlet.

There are advantages and disadvantages to both types of computer. PC’s (or Macs) are generally much more powerful and capable of a lot more than a tablet, but also weigh much more and are less portable. Even the lightest laptop finds it hard to compete with the lighter, smaller tablets. Operating systems and programmes available for computers are currently more capable than tablets, but not by much and the tablet software market grows literally every minute with new applications and software being written and released much faster than computer software.

Touchscreen technology is very intuitive but also cumbersome when typing large amounts.

What about my situation?

What about for children or families?

This is a personal choice, because each device can provide different levels of security.

Portable devices are great because kids pick them up and learn them incredibly fast.

But they are portable, so easily lost, stolen or bullied away from them. And with a 3G capable tablet your child is always connected to the Internet, which is both useful and risky depending on the age of your child. A desktop never leaves your house, is easier for you to manage and can be secured however you like, very easily.

device is coolest or looks the nicest. If you are very worried about security then set limits and actively monitor usage and content regardless of the device being used.

By Wayne Webb Wayne Webb is a community services manager for SmallWorlds - an online gaming site that caters to a 13 plus age range - an avid technology fiend and the father of two children who also love “screen things”.

Tablets Advantages

Disadvantages

Portable

Less powerful

Cheap

Some software not available

New software all the time

3G charges very expensive in NZ

Can connect anywhere

Hard to type large amounts of text on

Wi Fi network

Harder to monitor for parents

Games, music and movies friendly Freedom and independence

Childspace Early Learning Childspace Early Learning has five fantastic early childhood centres in Wellington. The centres are situated in houses and cottages with a pleasant, homely feel. Teachers develop respectful relationships with parents and whanau; they value and support individual families. The Childspace teaching teams are passionate about the potential of each child, and provide teaching programmes that

For older children and teenagers the tablet is almost the modern equivalent of what a car used to represent – freedom and independence. Parents should make their decision based on what their situation suggests and what the age and responsibility of their children is. The best thing to do is be informed and not just jump on the bandwagon of which

engage and celebrate children’s interests.

Childspace provides innovative learning environments - inspired by nature and locally made - that really are made for children, inspiring the imagination, creativity, movement and play.

Childspace offers a range of professional development for teachers across Aotearoa New Zealand. Visit www.childspace.co.nz.

Personal Computers Advantages

Disadvantages

Powerful

Less portable

More software available

Internet connection based on location

Better for large amounts of typing

No 3G charges (in most cases)

Better for intricate work and detail

Heavy and tied to one or limited locations.

Network hard connection or Wi Fi.

More expensive than tablets (generally)

Games, music and movies friendly Easier to secure and monitor

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11

Maureen Crisp from Family Times visited Naenae Primary School in Lower Hutt to talk with kids about how they think their childhood differs to that of their parents and grandparents.

Victoria Hawkins, age 11

My mum and dad told me that they would get sent to bed without dinner. That doesn’t happen to me. My mum and dad want me to stay away from trouble. I think technology doesn’t make your life better; it is better to play outside. I think it was the same 50 years ago; everybody played outside. All the parents were busy. I have a better life now.

Pi Langle, age11

In my country we didn’t have a lot. My grandfather and my mother had to work all day and night to look after me. They came to New Zealand to have a better future. I feel sad that they had to go through all that for me to have a better life. They have a better life because people are kind to them. My life is better here. I have to go to college and not muck around.

Unique McDonald, age 10

I think my life is better. My parents didn’t have colour TV. My mum used to get left alone a lot to look after other kids. I don’t have to do that. My mum doesn’t want me home by myself. My mum wants me to stay at college to get a good education. She says if I leave early I might be in a worse place.

Grace Peseta, age 9

I think my life is better. My mum used to get bullied at school and at home. That doesn’t happen to me. My mum wants me to have a better life than she had. I think it may have been easier 50 years ago because people today are getting addicted to

Museum of Wellington City & Sea free entry open every day 10am to 5pm Queens Wharf www.museumswellington.org.nz

messing about with buoys

A Wellington Museums Trust institution

PAGE www.familytimes.co.nz 12 12 www.familytimes.co.nz

technology. They aren’t getting fit and enjoying the beautiful day.

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Staglands Staglands Wildlife Reserve & Cafe offers a unique and exciting opportunity for visitors to feed and freely interact with wildlife in a natural environment. It is a beautiful tourist attraction; the product of one man’s passion and vision to experience nature at its best, located in the beautiful Akatarawa Valley in Upper Hutt, Wellington. Visit Staglands these October school holidays and children can get in for half price every weekday. This offer is not available in conjunction with any other special offer. Family Times have five family passes (two adults and two children) to Staglands to give away!

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th

September

MADAGASCAR 3: EUROPE’S MOST WANTED opens in NZ cinemas with Alex the Lion, Marty the Zebra, Gloria the Hippo, and Melman the Giraffe still fighting to get home to their beloved Big Apple, and of course King Julien, Maurice and the Penguins are all along for the comedic adventure. Their journey takes them through Europe where they find the perfect cover: a travelling circus, which they reinvent – Madagascar style.

Family Times has 4 prize packs including family passes, circus activity backpack, silicon watch, slap on wristband and travel set as well as 8 runner-up prize packs of merchandise to give away! Check out www.madagascarmovie.co.nz. Entries close 26th September 2012

MADAGASCAR 3: EUROPE’S MOST WANTED © 2012 DreamWorks Animation LLC. All Right Reserved.”

The Family Times Design Competition ISSN

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What does your whanau look like? We’d love to see a drawing of you and your whanau.

Draw them for us and be in to win an amazing $50 prize pack from Crayola!

Three entry age groups: preschool (age 1-4), 5-8, 9-12.

Create your design on an A5 sheet or download the template and entry form from www.familytimes.co.nz. Post in to PO Box 36 004, Christchurch 8146. Entries close on 12 October 2012.

NZ’s No.1 parenting publication

Check out our Competitions online and win! www.familytimes.com.nz

Congratulations to our winter Olympic design poster competition winners from our last issue.

Jessica Zhang, Auckland, age nine – 12 years

Misha Simpson, Auckland, age five – eight years Just tick the things youthe want to win Just tick things you want to win

Spring 2012 Tinker Bell and the Secret of the Wings BRITA water Filter jugs MADAGASCAR 3: EUROPE’S BRAVE MOST WANTED Ice Age 4: Continental Drift Staglands Jet Park Hotel – it’s a family Interislander affair

Spring 2012

Name Name Address Address

FREE WIT TH ADMISSIION Spring ‘‘Bursting with Life’’ tour – 1pm 6 / 7 Octt Walk and Talk and Species tours – Everyday

City City Phone Phone

To be in the draw to win, enter online at www.familytimes.co.nz or write your name and To be in the draw to win, enter online at www.familytimes.co.nz, write your name and address on address on the back of an envelope or postcard and send to: Christchurch Competition, the back of an envelope or postcard and send to:thWellington Competition, P O Box 36 004, ChristP O Box 36 004, Christchurch to reach us by 12 October 2012, unless stated otherwise. Only church to reach us by ????????? 2012, unless stated otherwise. Only one entry per household. one entry per household.

It’s easy to win fantastic prizes with Family Times. Just fill in the entry form and post it to us by the due date, or enter online at www.familytimes.co.nz. This month we have a fantastic line up of prizes with more great giveaways online… Good luck!. Check out last issue’s lucky winners online.

Tinker Bell and the Secret of the Wings Journey with Tinker Bell and her fairy friends into the forbidden world of the mysterious Winter Woods, where curiosity and adventure lead Tink to an amazing discovery and reveal a magical secret that could change her world forever. Secret of the Wings features a spectacular voice cast including Academy Award® winner Anjelica Huston as Queen Clarion, Timothy Dalton as Lord Milori, Lucy Liu as Silvermist, Raven-Symoné as Iridessa, Mae Whitman as Tinker Bell, and introducing the sparkling new winter fairy, Periwinkle, voiced by Lucy Hale. Family Times have five packs to give away containing a watch, kids’ T-shirt and poster. In cinemas 4 October. Entries close 26 September 2012.

SPRINGTIME AT ZEALANDIA PLUS Buggies go Bush – Just $10 every Wednesday (Sanctuary valley only, 1 adult per buggy) For all conditions, times and details go to www.visitzealandia.com/events or phone 04 920 9200

Yourr S Yo You Sanctuary... a tua anc uary. ry... for na nature, ature t re, not for fo profitt

Interislander It’s far more than a ferry service linking the North and South Islands – the Interislander’s voyage has been described as “one of the most beautiful ferry rides in the world”.

We would like you and your family to see why! Family Times have two Interislander return family passes including car to give away, valued at over $600 each! The following conditions apply: Pass is valid for 12 months for two adults, vehicle and up to three children to travel on the Interislander return. Not valid over Labour Weekend 2012, not valid for travel 15 December 2012 through to 25 January 2013 and not valid over Easter 2013.

Karori Pool �� 25 metre pool �� Toddler pool �� Spa �� Hydroslide �� ������������������� �� Birthday parties 22 Donald Street, Karori Phone 476 5400 Wellington.govt.nz www.familytimes.co.nz PAGE13 13 www.familytimes.co.nz

cool activities

Calendar of Events Spring is a great time of year Entry by gold coin donation. Email contact@ huttvalleymultiplebirthclub.co.nz for more to get out and about and information. enjoy the improving weather. 22 September There’s plenty going on in our Seatoun Spring Gala, St George’s Church, beautiful city whether you 40 Ferry Street, Seatoun at 11am. Kids’ want to try something new or bouncy castle, kids’ toys, home-made cakes, biscuits, muffins, jams, white elephant, plants, simply be entertained. handmade knits and family fun.

On now - until 11 November

29 September - 13 October

Plimmerton: A Colourful History at Pataka. From Taupo Pa, arrival of the railway, weekend resort and beach baches to the birth of a village, war years, fires galore, skeletons and rusty pistols, Plimmerton has had a fascinating past. With many photographs, early drawings and lithographs, objects and artefacts, posters, poems and postcards, the colourful story of Plimmerton is unravelled. Visit www. pataka.org.nz.

On now - until 3 December Local Coordinates is a series of photographic images by Molly Samsell.

The images present a composite of surfaces – from exterior brick walls to decorative interior features. Photographic moments of stillness are presented in contrast to the dynamic urban movement in Courtenay Place, creating a space that disrupts the pace of the everyday. Open to the public 24/7, Courtenay Place.

22 September Hutt Valley Multiple Birth Club Monster Garage and Craft Sale. Knox Church, High Street, Lower Hutt, 9am – 11.30am.

Capital E National Theatre for Children presents: Around the World and Buck again. Buck and his cultural canine compadres are back! With such entertaining canines for company, no wonder Buck doesn’t smell a rat. Toe-tapping sing-along songs will have the whole family entertained these holidays. Ideal for 2 to 7-year-olds. Visit www.capitale.org.nz to learn more.

2 October – ongoing Slice of Heaven: 20th Century Aotearoa at Te Papa. New Zealand changed dramatically in the 20th century. Discover what united and divided us, and shaped our lives today. Decide whether New Zealand really is a “slice of heaven”. Free entry. Visit www. tepapa.govt.nz for more information.

3 October The 25th Annual Showtime at Belmont Playcentre. Shows are 45 minutes long and include three different stories acted out - with music and singing - by Playcentre parents.

Followed by a sausage sizzle, face painting, bouncy castle, raffles and lucky dips. Tickets are $3 each or $10 for a family. On at 39 Norfolk St, Belmont Domain, Lower Hutt.

Phone 04-565-0004.

5 – 7 October

Cinderella

– NZ’s Best Top Model written and directed by Tanya Piejus 2-13 October 2012

Gryphon Theatre

Ghuznee Street, Wellington

11am & 1pm weekdays 11am Saturdays

Tickets $10/ $9 groups 10+ Bookings: (04) 934 4068

www.kapitallkidstheatre.co.nz

…. when you can’t be there for primary school kids during the school holidays!

• Themed programmes – fun, imaginative activities & games • Programme design includes each child’s stage of development • No fuss/no charge late pickup for emergencies • Qualified & Trained staff • OSCAR & WINZ • See web site for details

www.kidsco.co.nz

14 www.familytimes.co.nz

Swan Lake. The Imperial Russian Ballet Company performs Swan Lake, the most loved

Kapitall Kids Theatre presents Cinderella Sandra-Ella, a quiet girl from Waipukurau, is a finalist in New Zealand’s Best Top Model, along with arrogant competitors, sisters Montana and California. She has to wow the judges and hip fashion designer Charlie Prince to have any chance of winning.

Luckily, Sandra-Ella’s fairy godmother and her magic handbag are on hand to help her out. A modern adaptation with opportunities to sing along and join in the fun these school holidays. On 2-13 October 2012, visit www.kapitallkidstheatre.co.nz 04-934-4068.

Kiwi Flyer - The first Kiwi family movie in 27 years When 12-year-old Ben sets out to win the local trolley derby in the memory of his father, he learns what matters in life.

He is forced to battle an Aussie family who will stop at nothing to win the trophy, the school loan sharks and a mother who has banned him from the race.

The story is filmed entirely in the beautiful city of Nelson, and based around the annual trolley derby that has been run on and off for the last 60 years.

Kiwi Flyer is a story that comes from the heart of being a Kiwi. At its core are ideas that inspire all New Zealanders: dream big, Kiwi’s can do! This gem of a film is guaranteed to enthral and entertain families from Kaitaia to Bluff and back again.

Kiwi flyer features an ensemble of trueblue Kiwi talent with a cast including Tandi Wright (Nothing Trivial, Out of the Blue), comedian Dai Henwood (7 Days), Vince Martin (Beaurepaires) and introducing to the big screen Edward Hall and Tikkirau Hathaway. Don’t miss the rousing soundtrack from the inimitable Don McGlashan (The classical ballet of them all, at the Opera House.

Visit www.russianballet.co.nz to learn more.

10 October Vienna Boys Choir. A unique opportunity to experience the beauty of twenty-four of the world’s youngest voices in one of the world’s oldest musical traditions. Visit www.ticketek. co.nz for more information.

14 October Indonesian Fair. There’s lots to enjoy with a food bazaar, craft and trade exhibition, batik fashion show, cultural shows performances, door prizes, tourism stand and film festival.

Wellington Town Hall, 11am-4pm. Visit www. indonesianfair.com.

15 October – 20 December Circus classes for preschool, 5 to 7-years and 8 to 12-years in Newtown. Classes are

Kapiti Tenpin

“We had lots of fun at our work function: the staff and atmosphere were so warm and inviting, with bowling challenges followed by a fabulous roast dinner. They printed our scores so that we could have prize giving.

It was the best night, and one we look forward to repeating.”

You too can take advantage of the lovely warm environment and friendly atmosphere at Kapiti Tenpin Bowling, where family fun and together time is what it’s all about. Visit www. kapiti10pin.co.nz or phone 04-298-3674.

Mutton Birds). Kiwi Flyer was produced by Tim Sanders (Whale Rider, The Lord of the Rings – Fellowship of the Ring, Frighteners) and directed by Tony Simpson.

Kiwi flyer will be in a cinema near you from 27 September, in time for the September school holidays. Check out the trailer at www.kiwiflyerthemovie.co.nz.

When it’s Kiwi’s vs. Aussies, there can only be one winner! fun and imaginative, introducing kids to circus apparatus as well as the basics of acrobatics, theatre and movement. Wellington Circus Trust was formed as a charitable Trust in December 2005. Visit www.circus.org.nz to learn more.

21 October Diwali Festival of Lights. India’s best loved festival, Diwali, symbolises the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil and the renewal of life. Bring the whole family to sample the colours, sounds, tastes and spicy aromas of India. Highlights of the festival include delicious food stalls, traditional and contemporary dance and music, and beautiful rangoli displays. Free entry, TSB Arena, 1pm-10pm.

Visit www.asianz.org.nz.

27 October Paremata School Gala, Paremata Crescent, Porirua, 11am-3pm. There’s something for

KidzStuff Theatre presents Snow White, by Rachel Henry

Snow White is rescued by two dwarfs, whose five brothers left to be extras in The Hobbit! Together they come up with a plan to save the animals.

On 29 September – 13 October 2012, 4 Moncrieff Street (off Elizabeth Street), Mt Victoria. Monday – Friday 11am and 1pm, Saturday 11am. Tickets $10, groups of 10 plus are $9. For bookings, phone 04-385-0292.

everyone - fabulous food, entertainment, bouncy castles, games, a petting zoo, quality pre-loved toys, books and much more.

28 October St Benedict’s School Fair, 50 Nicholson Rd, Khandallah, 12pm. Craft stall, ethnic food, cakes, sweets, BBQ, American hot dogs, toys, books, plants, games, pre-loved clothes, white elephant, kids’ zone and more.

28 October Worser Bay School Fair, 168 Seatoun Heights, Miramar, 11am-2pm. Head along for a great range of stalls and activities for all ages. From white elephant to the Summerfest beer tent. Last year the school claimed its independence in the state of Miramar - this year it’s celebrating its “little island paradise.”

Visit www.worserbay.school.nz.

23 November

Entertainment

Street, Mt. Victoria. Phone 04-385-0292. rabbits, reptiles, farmyards animals and more.

Spring is well and truly in Trentham Racecourse, 3 and 4 November. Visit Reading Cinemas Courtenay the air! Now is a good time www.petexpos.co.nz.

This school holiday: the animals are trying to to start looking for some School Of Rock get back home in Madagascar 3, Greg is back Get along to Rock Camp 2012. Guest mentors entertainment ideas to keep in Diary of a Wimpy Kid 3, and take a holiday at include The Feelers, Kora, The Exponents Hotel Transylvania, Dracula’s five-stake resort. your kids occupied during the and more. On 19-23 December (early bird Kapitall Kids Theatre registrations close 1 October). upcoming school holidays.

Cinderella is a finalist in New Zealand’s Best ages 12 to18-years. Registrations 0800We’ve put together some fun For Top Model. On 2-13 October, 11am and 1pm 762-566 or www.rockcamp.co.nz. weekdays, 11am Saturdays, Gryphon Theatre, options to get you started.

Staglands Staglands Wildlife Reserve & Cafe is located in the scenic Akatarawa Valley and offers a unique experience for people to feed and freely interact with birds and animals. Open daily.

Visit www.staglands.co.nz.

KIDSCO

Trentham School Twilight Gala, corner of Moonshine Road and Fergusson Drive, Upper Hutt, 5-8pm. Head along for a great family evening with games, stalls, rides and yummy food.

Kids love KIDSCO, enough to wake their parents early to get to the programme. KIDSCO plans activities for all ages and interests from 5 – 11 years. Visit www.kidsco.co.nz.

28 November

Need a break? Go Glow Bowling! Grab a snack at the Tucker Bowl Café, the best place for family fun and entertainment on the Coast.

Visit www.kapiti10pin.co.nz.

The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey - World Premiere Street Parade. The spotlight is on the coolest little film-making capital in the world as the scene is set for the world premiere of The Hobbit. The Embassy Theatre will play host to the premiere, with the red carpet taking centre stage through Courtenay Place.

Compiled by Tracey-Ann Abery

cool activities

Kapiti Tenpin Bowling

Museum of Wellington City & Sea Step into a wonderland of maritime objects and get hands-on in Jack’s Boathouse - the kids’ activity area. From 10am to 5pm, free entry.

Visit www.museumswellington.org.nz.

Royal Canine Pet Expo The show for animal lovers, with all your favourite pets including cats, dogs, birds, fish,

Holiday specials The Wellington Botanic Garden Spring Festival Catch the cable car to enjoy the spectacular spring tulip and flower displays. Guided walks, talks, storytelling, workshops, a visit from zoo critters and a weekday children’s programme.

From 30 September – 7 October. Visit www. wellington.govt.nz.

Pataka Art and Museum Tuatara Gallery, a new creative space for kids, is opening at Pataka in early September.

Visit Pataka on the corner of Norrie and Parumoana Streets, Porirua. Visit www.pataka.org.nz.

Ghuznee Street. Tickets $10/$9 groups 10 plus. Bookings: 04-934-4068, visit www. kapitallkidstheatre.co.nz.

El Rancho El Rancho Spy Camp – The Great Mystery. The ultimate camp for young detectives. Send your kids away for an amazing week of spy fun. Visit www.elrancho.co.nz for more information.

Capital E’s World of Games Build Meccano marvels with mum, compete against aunty on Xbox, or have a dance-off with dad – it’s two weeks of games galore the entire family will love. From 1–13 October, drop in 10am–4pm. Visit www.capitale.org.nz.

It’s My Turn to Cook TonightZealandia Bursting with Life tour Bosch Join knowledgeable guides when the birds and the bush are bursting with life. On 6-7 October.

Tour leaves at 1pm. Then enjoy fresh spring menu items at Rata Café. Free with general admission. Visit www.visitzealandia.com.

KidzStuff Theatre presents: Snow White Snow White is rescued by two dwarfs, whose five brothers left to be extras in The Hobbit.

Monday – Friday 11am and 1pm. Saturday 11am.

Tickets $10/$9 groups 10 plus. At 4 Moncrieff

Get your children cooking in your home, using your food, with a nationwide online event, guided by Claire Gourley. From 2– 4 October, visit www.foodsavvykids.com for information.

The Polkadots in concert New Zealand’s premier children’s entertainers perform on 6 October in Lower Hutt at 10am and in Wellington at 2pm. Absolutely free.

For details and tickets visit Facebook.com/ polkadotsnz.

Compiled by Tracey-Ann Abery

“Meet The Polkadots, New Zealand’s premier children’s entertainers on tour during the October school holidays. For details visit Facebook.com/polkadotsnz.

www.familytimes.co.nz

15

parties

Old-fashioned birthday party fun Birthday parties are a momentous occasion full of fun and laughter, and create many happy memories for years to come.

M

any parents will have a favourite birthday party game they recall from their childhood: why not relive this joy time and time again? A lot of the games from yesteryear are still very popular today, require minimal planning and expense, and will guarantee lots of fun for everyone on the day. Here are some of the old classics from times past that are still delighting many at birthday parties today.

Pass the parcel

This can be played either outside or in. All you need is a pre-wrapped gift and to wrap it in loose layers of gift wrap or newspaper, with a small treat in each layer.

To play the game, sit the children in a circle, play some short snippets of music and have them pass the parcel to the next person in the circle. When the music stops, the person holding the parcel removes one layer of wrapping and gets that treat. Repeat until the last layer of wrapping has been removed, restarting and stopping the music each time.

You can use different treats for each layer to add a bit of mystery and keep the children

interested longer.

Out of fairness to all party goers, you may like to make sure you have enough layers of wrapping to cover all the partygoers and ensure the music stops at each child so they all get a turn. Suitable for any age group (even very small toddlers can play, perhaps sitting on an adults lap and with their help unwrapping and passing the parcel).

The chocolate game

This is a game of chance, and is a lot of fun! It is more suitable for children who are able to use a knife and fork.

All that is required is a die, an outfit such as hat gloves and jacket or large shirt, a knife and fork, and chocolate on a plate. All the kids sit around in a circle and take turns throwing a dice. When someone throws a six, they have to put the clothes on as fast as they can, then use the knife and fork to start chopping a block of chocolate and eating it square by square with the fork as fast as they can. As soon as the next person throws a six, they have to stop eating and take the costume off. The game continues until all the chocolate is finished.

Pinata

Pinatas are a paper-mache or other type of light container that is decorated and filled with treats, most commonly associated with Mexico. These can be purchased or made cheaply by layering strips of newspaper glued together with a flour and water paste onto a balloon, dried and then painted. Allow a space at the top large enough to fill with treats and then hang on a tree branch or similar with strong twine or string. Each child takes turn hitting the pinata with a stick or bat until all the treats fall out. Make sure the rest of the children are a safe distance from the “hitter” as they await their turn.

Pin the tail on the donkey

Draw an outline of a donkey on a large sheet of cardboard and place this up on a wall or

Thompsons Horse Centre

Thompsons Horse Centre has holiday programmes, birthday party plans, gift vouchers, and individual/group riding lessons available.

For birthday parties, children can have a lovely ride around the farm trail, or if wet, play mounted games in the indoor arena.

There is a picnic area/playground for the children to enjoy and you are able to have your own party food in this safe area.

Holiday programmes are two days long, from 9am -4pm: these are great fun and something that all children will remember.

For more information phone 04-526-4515 or visit www.thompsonshorsecentre.co.nz.

corkboard at a low height. On a separate piece of card, draw a tail, or if you feel particularly creative, find a small scarf or fluffy fabric to act as the tail. Place a pin at the top of the tail (take care here). Make as many tails as there are children and put their names on these. Put a large mark on the donkey where the child needs to aim. Each child is blindfolded and has a turn one-at-a-time to place the tail where they think it should be. The closest to the actual spot is the winner (have a prize ready!).

Get physical – race ideas

Burn off all the party treats with some solid

physical activity.

Test the children’s balance and co-ordination

with an egg-and-spoon race: each child at the start line holds a spoon with an egg on it (hardboiled recommended!). At the start command, they move as quickly as they can to the finish line without the egg falling off the spoon. They are only allowed to hold the spoon with one hand. If the egg falls they are out of the race.

The quickest to cross the line with the egg still on the spoon is the winner!

Another race variation is the sack race, suitable for all ages. Children place both of their legs inside a sack or pillow case that reaches their waist or neck and jump forward from a starting point toward a finish line. The first person to cross the finish line is the winner of the race.

Two Great Wellington Locations Lone Star Petone Cnr Jackson & Buick St |04 568 2555 Lone Star Wellington 66 Tory St | 04 385 4848

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www.lonestar.co.nz 16 www.familytimes.co.nz

Let’s go tramping!

Taking your children into the outdoors is a great way to spend time with your family, have fun and discover new things. And an overnight stay in a backcountry hut is a great adventure. The very idea of venturing into the wilds with children can seem daunting, but it’s easier than you think, and there are plenty of options not too far from home.

How far can you go on your first tramp?

Further than you think! The average threeyear-old should be able to walk a couple of kilometres. Be prepared to let toddlers walk some and be carried some.

Older children of course should be able to go much further but to start off, pick destinations within three hours walking time. Allow plenty of time for discovery along the way.

Let them pack and carry their own gear Most kids really want to carry a pack, but a toy and a small bottle of water are enough for littlies to start with. Be prepared to carry it for them later if they get tired. Older ones can carry their own warm top and snacks, torch and survival blanket.

They don’t need special tramping boots, but well-fitting sneakers with good tread are essential. Watch out for blisters as children don’t always notice these are forming.

Keep them interested

Visit places that offer something for everyone a quiet forest may not appeal to an 8-year-old in the same way as it does to you!

Share your adventures with other families with children similar ages - the kids will feed off each other and keep each other energised.

Keep them fed and watered

Young people need frequent top-ups when walking. Take high energy snacks like barley sugars and milo in a thermos to warm up cold insides. A sheet of plastic folds up small to fit into a daypack, and provides a dry place to sit.

Orongorongo Track Orongorongo Track is Rimutaka Forest Park’s most popular track and a pleasant walk to the Orongorongo River through different forest types. There are safe swimming holes at Turere Stream at the end of the track and several huts to stay in the valley.

Time: two hours return to Turere Bridge Distance: 5.2km Grade: Walking track

Booked huts A number of huts in the Orongorongo Valley are available for exclusive hire.

They are all equipped with mattresses, water, heating, toilets and, except for Boar Inn, gas cookers and utensils.

For information and to book, contact the DOC Wellington Visitor Centre on 04-384-7770, wellingtonvc@doc.govt.nz or visit booking.doc.govt.nz.

Getting there

Catchpool Valley is located 12km south of Wainuiomata, on the Coast Road, 45 minutes drive from Wellington.

Holdsworth - Totara Flats Hut Time: 4 hours Grade: Easy tramping track A more challenging option for older families, this track is well-graded but has steep sections and some un-bridged stream crossings.

From Holdsworth Lodge, cross the bridge and walk towards Donnelly’s Flat. Turn left at the signpost and climb the Gentle Annie track towards Mountain House Shelter.

This track is well-graded, and offers several lookout points. The track follows the ridge to the Totara Creek turnoff.

Follow the track down the ridge - at times a steep gradient - into Totara Creek.

Cross here (un-bridged) and continue downstream on the true right. The track crosses several creeks and grassy flats.

At the Waiohine River, cross the bridge and follow the signs to Totara Flats Hut which has gas cookers, mattresses and toilets.

Macpac Vamoose

Macpac’s Vamoose goes off the beaten track and is fully featured to ensure comfort and security for both parent and child. Proven Macpac load-carry technology combined with ultimate child comfort means the whole family can have hassle-free adventures together. Features include variable child seat-depth which can be adjusted as your child grows, Explorer harness designed for ease of use, balance and comfort, a generous 25lt base pocket for gear storage and the Sombrero sunshade and Rainbow rain cover included. The Vamoose is the perfect child carrier to get the whole family out and about.

To win a Macpac Vamoose valued at $449.95 enter online at www.familytimes. co.nz or write your name and address on the back of an envelope or postcard and send to: Macpac Vamoose, PO Box 36 004,

Christchurch, to reach us by 12 October 2012. www.macpac.co.nz

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Getting there: Holdsworth, near Masterton is the main east entrance to Tararua Forest Park. Turn off State Highway 2 on to Norfolk Road, 2km south of Masterton. This leads to Mount Holdsworth Road. Holdsworth is 15 km from State Highway 2.

By Kerry Swadling, Department of Conservation

Keep them warm

Layers of clothing are the key. You can be warm while walking, but cool down quickly when you stop. Wool, polypropylene or polar fleece are best as they keep you warm even when wet. Take a warm hat, mittens and spare woolly socks, and a waterproof jacket.

If you’re carrying a toddler in a backpack check often that hands, feet and head are still warm.

Keep them safe

Children like to run ahead but be aware: bush and forest can be risky. It’s impossible to fence off every steep drop or stream so keep them close and in sight.

Checklist of what to take:

• Take a comfort toy if your child has one – it’s hard to sleep in a strange place!

• You need to be completely self-sufficient with a sleeping bag for everyone, cooking stove and pots, plates, cups and cutlery.

• Carry a map and compass, first aid and survival kits, water bottle and plenty of highenergy food.

• Carry a tent or fly as huts can fill up at any time.

• Hire a 406MHz personal locator beacon, mountain radio, or satellite phone for backup.

Mobile phones rarely work in the mountains. www.familytimes.co.nz

17

safety

Cycle safety Learning to ride a bike is a huge milestone for many children.

B

icycles are an important source of exercise, transportation and recreation, and for many children in New Zealand, learning to ride a bicycle is an important part of their play and development.

Cycling related injuries are however one of the top 10 causes of unintentional injuryrelated deaths for children, and one of the top three causes of unintentional injury related hospitalisations for children in New Zealand.

“Safekids is about keeping kids free to enjoy their childhood, which includes cycling in their communities and to school, without the adverse effects of unintentional injuries,” said Safekids New Zealand director Ann Weaver.

Here are some tips to keep your child cycle-safe: Buy a bike that suits your child’s height, skills and riding experience

Buying a bike that your child will grow into is unsafe, and could cause them to have an accident. To see if a bike is too big for your child, get them to sit on the saddle - if their toes don’t touch the ground on both sides then it’s too big. Make sure they feel comfortable when seated.

Visit your local bike shop for an expert opinion on finding the right bike for your child.

ground with their feet when seated.

• handlebars at seat level or above.

• limited gear options.

• brakes that are appropriate to the age and ability of the cyclist. Back pedal brakes may be a better alternative to hand brakes for very young children with small hands these are available on some tricycles and small bicycles.

Another thing to consider is buying a bike with training wheels, as this will help your child get used to balancing. A balance bike, which has no pedals and allows children to move forward using their feet, is an ideal first bike for younger children.

Choosing a helmet

All cyclists are required to wear a helmet.

When selecting one for your child make sure it is the right size and shape for their head.

Buying a helmet that doesn’t fit means your child’s head won’t be protected if they fall off.

When buying a helmet: • Make sure the helmet is standards approved. You can tell if it complies as there will be a standards sticker on the inside.

• For information on how to fit your child’s helmet correctly, visit the resources page at bikewise.co.nz.

Some important safety tips • Lead by example. Teach your child the right

road rules.

Ensure your child cycles with a supervisor if they are under the age of 10.

• Think about enrolling your child on a cyclist skills training course, which can help them build their cycling confidence and skills.

The best bicycle for learning on • Maintain their cycle regularly – check their For young or new cyclists the best bicycle to brakes, tyres and chain. If you have any learn on should have: doubts, its best to get their bike serviced • A frame that can easily be straddled by by an expert or cycle shop. the cyclist.

• a seat where the cyclist can easily reach the For more information visit www.bikewise.co.nz

•

Bike Barn - get some new wheels in time for spring Whether it is upgrading, upsizing or getting your child onto their very first bike, the Bike Whether it is upgrading, upsizing or getting your child onto their very first bike, the Bike Barn team has the know-how to be able to help you get the right bike at the right price. And if your kids are starting to out-ride you’re pace, maybe it’s time to get on some comfy wheels of your own to keep up.

The staff at Bike Barn are passionate about bikes. With a quick conversation they will ensure that you and your family are fitted to the right bike. There is a great deal of reassurance for your family knowing that they are dealing

with experts and that your family is on the right bikes for your individual requirements.

Bike Barn stores have fully-equipped workshops that will look after your every need, from handle bar to back wheel. All Bike Barn stores offer free safety checks on all bikes, any make or model; take this opportunity and be sure that you and your family are riding on safe bikes. At Bike Barn, they love your bike as much as you do, so your bike is in good hands!

Visit www.BikeBarn.co.nz for special deals, and don’t hesitate to call into Bike Barn Wellington on Wakefield Street and Rocket Bikes in the Rongotai Megacentre.

Mocka Mocka is one of New Zealand’s favourite online retailers. It offers quality-made kids’ and adults’ furniture, nursery furniture and kids’ toys, all at amazing prices! Kids just love Mocka balance bikes and wooden trikes, and there is an extensive range of children’s furniture in a variety of colours and funky designs. Best of all, all Mocka products are safe, comfortable and designed to last. Mocka offers free delivery New Zealand-wide. Visit www.mocka.co.nz.

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BIKE BARN WELLINGTON 246 Wakefield St Phone 04 384 7321 See our new website www.bikebarn.co.nz ROCKET BIKES WELLINGTON Cnr George Bolt and Cochrane Streets, Lyall Bay Phone 04 387 3900 18 www.familytimes.co.nz

Mocka Balance Bike and Cruise Trike!

Mocka’s wooden balance bikes (or running bikes) are designed to develop your child’s balance and co-ordination in preparation for riding their first push-bike. New to the range is the Mocka Cruise Trike which is suitable for wee ones who aren’t quite big enough for our Balance Bikes. Mocka and Family Times have 2 Balance Bikes or Cruise Trikes to give away (winners will be contacted to make their choice). Enter online at www.familytimes.co.nz or write your name and address on the back of an envelope or postcard and send to: Mocka, PO Box 36 004, Christchurch, to reach us by 12 October 2012. Check out www. mocka.co.nz for more fantastic products.

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www.familytimes.co.nz

19

market place

Family Getaways

! s l a e D y l i Great Fam Queenstown Accommodation Deal The package includes: •

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see our website for opening days & hours www.clearviewestate.co.nz

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Call the hotel direct on (03) 442 7950 and quote FAMTIME to book

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The package includes:

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A bed for every budget

space

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Book online www.kennedypark.co.nz Call 0800 457 275 or 06 843 9126 Visit 11 Storkey St Napier

1 nights’ accommodation in a 2 bedroom apartment Full cooked breakfast for 2 adults and up to 2 children Two milkshakes for the kids Two drinks for the parents One bowl of fries

*Promotion rates available for stays from 1 September 2012 to 31 January 2013. Based on 2 adults and 2 children. Subject to availability. No availability from 29 December 2012 to 3 January 2013. Due to Sale of Liquor Act restrictions, alcoholic drinks can only be supplied to persons over the age of 18 years and proof of age may be requested at check-in. Please call the hotel direct for full terms and conditions. **Promotion rates available for stays up to 31 December 2012. Maximum occupancy 2 adults and one or two children under 14 years old depending on room configuration. Subject to availability. Please visit the website for full terms and conditions.

Enjoy some Family Time Family Times Quarterpage Advert.indd 1

10/09/2012 1:37:44 p.m.

Families are well catered for on every Interislander voyage.Nurseries provide cot and baby-changing facilities. Playgrounds of varying sizes, for a range of ages ensure that our youngest passengers can play and meet new friends. If they can be convinced to leave the playground, magicians and clowns perform on many school holiday sailings.

And, of course Interislander looks after families with a range of great value fare options.

20 www.familytimes.co.nz

market place

Family physical activity Spring is in the air. Make the most of it and get out and about with your family.

Check out these outdoor ideas to get you started.

Anytime Kaitoke Regional Park.

Fortyfive minutes north of Wellington, Kaitoke Regional Park features steep, bush-clad hills, the fork of the Hutt and Pakuratahi rivers and centuries-old native forest. There are beautiful rainforest tracks and a classic swinging bridge that the kids will love. Walk the Ridge track for wonderful views of the Upper Hutt valley, or visit Rivendell, the magical spot filmed for the Lord of the Rings trilogy. Visit www.gw.govt.nz for a park map and more information.

20 September Tinytown Buggy Walk. Enjoy the company of other parents with guided buggy walks around the southern and eastern suburbs each month. No booking required - just turn up on the day. All participants will receive a free muffin and coffee afterwards courtesy of Porse. Meet at 9:45am, walk from 10am. Begins at Scorching Bay (parking available on Massey Street). A casual, lowmedium intensity walk that takes you along the Bay and Karaka Bay Road.

22 September Kilbirnie Recreation Centre Roller Disco. Featuring DJ Liam Luff,

skating games, and competition for best dressed. Children (12-years and under) and parents/caregivers, 5-7pm. Doors open 4:45pm. Adults only (13-years and over) 8-11pm. Doors open 7:45pm. With skate hire: $15. With own skates: $10. Door sales only for both events.

24 September Twilight Summer Football 2012. A weekly five-a-side football

competition available for players of all ages and abilities. Games are played midweek in

the evenings and also on weekends. Have fun and keep fit. Te Whaea in Newtown and Naenae College. Visit www.sportzone.org.nz to learn more.

12 October Cheapskates Grom Skateboard Competition.

Street and vert competition (1.2m high), featuring boxes, quarter pipes, table tops, ramps, pyramids, wedge ramps and launch ramps.

There are three age categories: 7-9, 10-12 and 13-15 years, or just head along to watch some great entertainment. From 1-4pm, Kilbirnie Recreation Centre. Helmets provided. To pre-register or find out more, phone the centre on 04-387-1491.

14 October

2012/2013 primary and intermediate school term dates

ol Scho m Te r s e Dat

Term 4, 2012

Monday 6 May to Friday 12 July

Term 3, 2013

Monday 29 July to Friday 27 September

Term 1, 2013

Term 2, 2013

Monday 6 May to Friday 12 July

Between Monday 28 January and Thursday 7 February to 19 April

Term 2, 2013

Tuesday 15 October to no later than Friday 14 December

Between Monday 28 January and Thursday 7 February to 19 April

Monday 15 October to no later than Thursday 20 December

Term 1, 2013

2012/2013 secondary and composite school term dates Term 4, 2012

Term 3, 2013

Monday 29 July to Friday 27 September

2012 public holidays remaining

Labour Day - 22 October (Monday) Christmas Day - 25 December Boxing Day - 26 December

Education

Entertainment

Wairarapa Marathon, Half Marathon and Fun Run (5km and 10km). Be in to win thousands of dollars in spot prizes. Major spot prize of $1000. Makoura College, Masterton, starts at 7am. Enter online at www.athleticsmasterton.org.nz.

24 October – 2 November Total Touch Summer Competitions. Keep fit, keep healthy, have fun and get outside with your friends and family at a Total Touch Competition.

Competitions for adults, kids and families at a park near you. Visit www.totaltouch.org.nz to learn more.

Health

3 November Big Bang 6 Hour Adventure Race is back again with mountain biking,

hiking, navigation and a water activity plus mystery detours to keep you on your toes - on an all-new course in the Kapiti/ Horowhenua region. The top secret course offers you breathtaking scenery, a great day’s bonding and serious fun. From 8am–4pm, Otaki Memorial Hall. Phone 06-364-0133 for tickets.

Compiled by Tracey-Ann Abery

Recreation

Karori Pool

Dining

• 25 metre pool • Toddler pool • Spa • Hydroslide • Aqua fitness classes • Birthday parties 22 Donald Street, Karori Phone 476 5400 Wellington.govt.nz www.familytimes.co.nz

21

Know your numbers On the Heart Foundation website “Know Your Numbers,” you can answer a few questions about your key numbers like your blood pressure and cholesterol and get a good assessment of what your heart health is.

K

ey numbers play a big part in many walks of life. You can actually put a number on the food and drink you consume, which will give you an excellent guide to help you and your family have a healthy weight and avoid diabetes.

The number system is called glycaemic load

(GL) but for simplicity’s sake we will call it glucose number. It gives guidelines numerically for the amount of glucose you need for energy from your different meals and snacks. The excess will be stored as fat if you exceed your quota. Long-term excesses lead to diabetes and obesity.

Suggested numbers for any meal are 0 -10 low, 11-19 medium and 20 plus high, and about half this for snacks. In an average day, with three main meals and two snacks, the recommended total GL range before coming too high would be 44 - 76.

Most importantly, young children, depending on their weight and age need much less.

Let’s have a look at some of the daily traps we need to negotiate when we visit the local food court. Remember, it’s only carbohydrate that

makes the glucose.

Food courts have a wide range of healthy food options with only a few, high glucose traps you need to avoid, such as: • The average hamburger bun, six inch sub and other white bread products like baps and foccaccia, with an average weight of about 100g and a glucose number of 30.

• Rice portions are often 150g plus, which has a number of 45.

• Muffins, scones, slices and cakes average about 120g and an average number of 30.

• Each sushi roll is on average 17.

What do all these fast-digesting foods have in common? They are generally soft and squishy and full of simple carbohydrate.

If your eight-year-old consumes one of these items they are getting their whole day’s glucose all in one big hit. Add in a lightweight cereal for breakfast, a fizzy or juice drink or two and a big helping of chips with their tea, and their number could climb to a total of between 80 and 90.

This is nearly three times their recommended daily total of about 35: a certain recipe for storing glucose excesses as fat.

This bad news is easily remedied if people have some idea of where these problems lie. The food court is actually full of healthy, balanced options like quiches, kebabs, chicken salads, thin crust pizza, Subway, grilled chicken wraps, bacon and egg pie and so on.

The trick is to recognise the big glucose producers and eat small portions of these in combination with more sustaining food. e.g.

• Limit the number of sushi rolls and combine with a little pot of nuts or a milkshake • Eat half the Subway or hamburger bun • Share a muffin and eat with a piece of quiche Check out www.eatforkeeps.com for lots of different tips and ideas for maintaining your blood-sugar levels and having a healthy weight and life.

Colic, reflux, and inconsolable crying Have you lived through these heartwrenching behaviours? Are you living them now? If so, our children need your voice.

It is estimated that 20 per cent of newborns suffer from the unnecessary behaviour of socalled colic alone, worldwide. With live births in New Zealand recorded at 62,600 over a 12-month period, that’s 12,520 newborns and parents experiencing this diabolical start to life each year. Yet the overall statistical information on this growing problem is minimal.

You can help others by taking part in a survey that strives to: • Gain a wider perspective of what is really happening for New Zealand whanau • Collate information to be used to heighten awareness • Glean specific information about certain methods • Create a space for voice • Magnify the necessary points for change of some practices • Bring about further possibilities of research • Become a “nation of one” on the subject • Enhance conducive solutions that work for all newborns Please take time to evoke further understanding, and thus potential change for our young. Help collate solid national statistics while going into a fabulous prize draw.

Visit www.naturalwinding.co.nz to take part in this survey.

The survey begins August and runs until the start of December.

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1

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23

Daddy says I’m still beautiful.

Make sure you have working smoke alarms.

Before it’s too late.

Smoke alarms save lives. fire.org.nz The New Zealand Fire Service recommends long-life photoelectric smoke alarms.

24 www.familytimes.co.nz